BGF appoints Andy Watts to Talent Network team

BGF has announced the appointment of Andy Watts to its Talent Network team. Andy will provide support to BGF-backed companies by further expanding BGF’s network of non-executives, interim managers and experienced finance directors.

Andy has more than 13 years’ recruitment experience, including most recently as a partner with Boyden UK. He has worked with blue-chip and smaller, high-growth clients across the consumer, retail, hospitality, technology, support services and industrial sectors. Before Boyden, Andy worked at Whitehead Mann as part of the Industry team, covering London and the Midlands. His early career was as a fully qualified Solicitor.

In his new role, Andy will work with BGF-backed companies across early-stage, growth-stage and quoted to identify and introduce potential senior executive, non-executive and interim management hires. Andy will also be part of the team responsible for sourcing experienced finance professionals to support BGF’s investment teams during the due diligence process.

BGF is the UK’s most active investor in growing companies in the UK and Ireland. An established, independent company, BGF has £2.5bn to support a range of growing companies – early stage, growth stage and quoted – across every region and sector of the economy.

BGF’s Talent Network is one of the largest groups of experienced business leaders in the UK and Ireland. During the past six years, this network has grown to more than 4,000 members who engage with BGF throughout the investment lifecycle. This includes co-investing, sharing market, commercial and financial insight, and taking Chair, non-executive director or interim management roles at BGF-backed businesses.

Recent introductions include Ivan Dunleavy, former CEO of Pinewood Studios, who has joined high-growth Milk Visual Effects as Chair, and Martin McCourt, former CEO of Dyson, who has joined eighth-generation ceramics manufacturer, Dudson, as Chair.

Cate Poulson, Head of Talent Network BGF said: “BGF’s Talent Network is a critical resource for our investment team and the companies we back. Andy brings a wealth of experience and contacts, and will be a valuable addition as we continue to grow our broader network in order to support BGF’s investment activity.”

Andy Watts added: “The size and calibre of BGF’s network is testament to both the quality of its investment portfolio, and of its mission to champion growing British businesses. I am delighted to be joining the Talent Network team and to work alongside investee companies to understand their requirements and support their senior level recruitment needs.”